Washington, [Date] – The White House has lauded Ukraine’s recent success in recapturing the city of Kherson, calling it an “extraordinary victory” against Russian occupation. This marks a significant milestone in the ongoing conflict, as Kherson was the only regional capital seized by Russia since the invasion began.
“It does appear that the Ukrainians have secured an extraordinary victory, reclaiming the one regional capital Russia had occupied. Seeing the Ukrainian flag fly once more over Kherson is truly remarkable,” stated National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan. His remarks were made while accompanying President Joe Biden to the ASEAN summit in Cambodia.
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Strategic and Political Implications
Kherson, a crucial city in southern Ukraine, played a key role in Russia’s occupation strategy. The retreat of Russian forces from the city has significant strategic consequences, particularly in easing long-term threats to other major Ukrainian cities such as Odessa.
“It’s a momentous occasion, achieved through the exceptional resilience and skill of the Ukrainian forces, backed by steadfast and united support from the United States and our allies,” Sullivan added.
Impact on the Wider Conflict
The withdrawal of Russian troops from Kherson signals a broader shift in the battlefield dynamics. Analysts suggest that Ukraine’s recapture of the city could disrupt Russian supply lines and weaken their defensive positions in the south.
| Key Consequences of Kherson’s Liberation | Potential Impact |
|---|---|
| Loss of Russia’s only occupied regional capital | Political setback for Moscow |
| Disruption of Russian supply chains | Hinders further offensives |
| Strengthened Ukrainian morale | Boosts resistance efforts |
| Renewed Western support | Encourages further military aid |
Prospects for Negotiation
Responding to speculation that the Biden administration was encouraging Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to explore negotiations with Moscow, Sullivan reiterated that the responsibility for ending the war lay with Russia.
“This idea, often raised in Western media, of ‘when will Ukraine negotiate?’ overlooks the fundamental reality of the situation,” he explained. “Russia continues to make outlandish claims regarding its self-declared annexations, even as it faces defeats on the battlefield.”
Sullivan emphasised that Ukraine remains the party advocating peace, whereas Russia has pursued aggression. “If Russia were to stop fighting and withdraw, the war would end. However, if Ukraine were to cease its resistance, it would mark the end of Ukraine itself,” he stated.
Unwavering Western Support
The United States has reaffirmed its strong alliance with Ukraine, with continuous military and economic assistance flowing to support its war effort. President Biden’s administration remains in close consultation with President Zelensky and his government to ensure continued backing in the face of Russian aggression.
Ukraine’s victory in Kherson has further bolstered international confidence in its ability to reclaim occupied territories, demonstrating both military capability and strategic resilience. With sustained Western aid and Ukrainian determination, the war’s trajectory continues to evolve, offering hope for a just resolution in the long term.